Bright Lights of Catholic Education
Reflection by Dr. Steven F. Cheeseman, NCEA President/CEO
The Diocese of Santa Rosa serves approximately 3,400 students in 15 Catholic schools across Northern California, including five high schools and 10 elementary schools. Under the leadership of Dr. Linda Norman, Superintendent of Schools, and Bishop Robert F. Vasa, the Diocese of Santa Rosa Catholic schools partner with parents to form and educate children for a Christ-centered life through rigorous instruction focused on developing intellectual, emotional, moral, physical, social, and spiritual competencies. This mission is reflected throughout the diocese’s school communities, where faith formation, academic excellence, and service are woven into daily life.
As I continue the Bright Lights of Catholic Education Tour, my journey took me to the scenic Diocese of Santa Rosa. From the rolling hills of Napa to the heart of Santa Rosa, I witnessed firsthand how Catholic education serves as a beacon of hope and excellence, illuminating the lives of students and families across Northern California. This visit was a powerful reminder that our schools are not just centers of academic rigor, but vibrant communities where the “wholeness of body, mind, and soul” is nurtured daily.
My first stop was Cardinal Newman High School. The energy on campus was palpable from the moment I arrived. I met with a group of students who were eager to share a “day in the life,” and their enthusiasm for their school was contagious. Whether it was observing a biology class dissecting chicken legs or hearing the school band practice for an upcoming pep rally, the campus felt alive with purpose.
What makes Cardinal Newman a true “bright light” is its dedication to forming influential thought leaders through programs like the Newman Oxford Scholars. Inspired by the legacy of Saint John Henry Newman, these scholars engage in rigorous academic study and symposium-style presentations to address real-world challenges. The school’s mission to educate the whole person is beautifully represented by its stunning chapel, the literal and spiritual center of campus life. Notably, the spiritual identity of the school is physically woven into the campus by Bishop Robert Vasa, who personally hand-crafted all the crosses and crucifixes found throughout the grounds, including those in the beautiful chapel.
Beyond academics, there was a deep sense of resilience here. Parts of the campus were rebuilt following devastating fires, yet the community spirit remains unbreakable. It was a privilege to attend an evening reception where seniors reflected on their four years of growth. Their poise and well-spoken nature were a testament to the school’s success in building “life’s champions.”
Right next door is St. Rose Catholic School, a K-8 community that has provided over 90 years of Catholic education in Sonoma County. The principal shared a beautiful observation that defines the atmosphere here: the students have a truly “loving response” toward each other.
St. Rose is a place where innovation meets tradition. I was impressed to learn about their implementation of a new math curriculum and the thoughtful inclusion of rocking chairs in classrooms for children who need to move while they learn. The school also fosters a unique partnership with Cardinal Newman, sharing facilities like the track and gym to enhance student life.
Service is at the heart of the St. Rose experience. From a crab feed that raised over $100,000 for the school to student-led efforts that raised $14,000 to grant a Make-A-Wish, the community exemplifies the motto Serviam (I will serve). As I walked through the halls, I felt the warmth of a school that treats every student as a unique child of God.
My journey then took me to Napa to visit St. Apollinaris Catholic School, which serves students in TK through 8th grade. Arriving on Ash Wednesday, I had the honor of attending Mass with the 331 students and faculty. The school’s leadership has been very intentional about “recapturing their Catholic identity,” a move supported by the local pastors and felt throughout the curriculum.
The creativity in the classrooms was a highlight of my visit. In the third grade, I saw visual footprints that track students’ reading journeys across the classroom, rewarding them for their academic progress. Meanwhile, the fourth-grade curriculum focuses on the 10 Commandments and Reconciliation, grounding the students’ education in their faith.
St. Apollinaris is more than just a school; it is a catalyst for faith in the broader community. The school has seen many stories of conversion, where the children’s experiences in the classroom inspire their parents to return to or join the Catholic faith. It is a “micro-community” where the neighborhood was built around the school, creating an environment where students are spiritual, scholarly, and committed to service.
The Diocese of Santa Rosa is home to schools that are truly “bright lights.” Whether it is through the global vision of a Cardinal Newman graduate, the compassionate service of a St. Rose student, or the spiritual renewal happening at St. Apollinaris, these schools are fulfilling the mission of Catholic education. They are places where tradition meets innovation, and where every child is seen as a gift from God.
I am deeply grateful to the educators, students, and families of Santa Rosa for welcoming me into their community. Your light is guiding our world toward a greater relationship with Christ. Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the Bright Lights across the country!
FACTS is dedicated to making educational dreams possible for families and students while enhancing the financial stability and affordability of education. Serving over 12,000 schools worldwide and more than three million students and families, FACTS provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to support administrators and learners alike in delivering exceptional educational experiences. FACTS works with many Catholic schools and dioceses across the United States and is proud to power the NCEA “Bright Lights of Catholic Education” tour, continuing its commitment to Catholic education for years to come.
